Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007

The Chamber of Commerce awards the Entrepreneur of the Year Award to business' that demonstrate a record of growth, exhibit effective marketing strategies that achieve business goals and also have a record of chamber and local community involvement.

Van Jackson began his career in his garage in 1992. He competes in a high-demand Florida industry, hurricane protection, and his business has experienced tremendous growth during the "shake-out" of shutter companies in recent years. AGP's sales have increased nearly 50% for each of the last 2 years, and he expects similar growth in 2007 with the goal of exceeding the five million dollar mark in annual sales. To accomodate this growth, he is constructing a new 9,000 square foot building.

Van lists the major components leading to his company's growth as being integrity, performance, honesty and fair pricing. AGP has a complaint-free record as one of our Better Business Council Members and has also been voted "Best of Brevard" each year since 2001. In addition to his Chamber and BBC participation, he is also a member of the Brevard Homebuilders and Contractors Association, the National Accredidation and Management Institute, American Shutter Systems Association and the International Hurricane Protection Association.

In his spare time, Van serves as safety officer on the board of West Melbourne Little League and coaches both football and baseball teams. AGP is also a major sponsor of the Better Living Expo held by the Chamber every year.